Friedensau Adventist University

International Social Sciences / Development Studies, Master of Arts

The MA International Social Sciences is a non-consecutive study programme over 4 semesters offered in the English language. The course is state recognized and fully accredited with a “more research oriented accreditation”.

The M.A. International Social Sciences has a specific focus on development studies and issues around global justice. It aims at professionalizing those already working in develop¬ment or those curious about it. It offers a solid academic base in the field of development studies. Students learn about relevant theories that are nec¬essary to critically reflect on current practices in the field of development aid.

Practical competencies are furthered through courses such as project planning, monitoring and evaluation. Academic competencies in research methods and writing skills enable a continuation in a scientific career.

The specific worth of the program lies in the oppor¬tunity to assess international issues through a literally global perspective - stemming from the diversity of the student body.

Courses at FAU are offered in semesters. The course can be started in the winter or in summer semester of an academic year. It is possible to study part – time off-campus and full-time on campus. Part time courses are offered in two weeks per semester and online.

Studies at FAU follow the customary German academic year. The winter semester begins in October and ends end of February, the summer semester begins middle of March and ends end of June.

The MA prepares thoroughly for an academic career in development as the writing of the Master Thesis is not only accompanied closely through the supervisors, but is also enhanced by methodological training.

The study programme also prepares / accompanies well a practical career for development through its emphasis on participatory planning courses and a focus on disaster management and a critical lens on global power relations and postcolonial matters.

Friedensau Adventist University

Friedensau Adventist University is a private university with the state recognition and the oldest Seventh-day Adventist University. With a history of over 100 years, FAU has developed into a place where students from different cultures meet and study together. At the present time we have around 40 % of foreign students.

The University is located in the province of Saxony-Anhalt in a picturesque rural quiet area, in former East Germany, 35 km east of Magdeburg. Berlin can be reached within 1,5 hours by train or by car. The school is surrounded by woods with a creek running through the campus.